Love the skin you’re in

As we begin a new decade by welcoming the year 2020, it’s a time when many make resolutions and pay closer attention to caring for their bodies. As we know our skin is the body’s largest organ and it is an important part of our health and physical appearance. Therefore, we often see where conditions affecting the skin can cause a significant impact on someone’s general health and overall emotional state and self-esteem. We have also seen over the years where the colour of one’s skin, hair texture and even hairstyle have been used to judge others for better or for worse. Here are 10 ways in which we can love and care for the skin we are in.

1. 2020 is here. No matter what state you find yourself in, whether or not you achieved all your goals, are where you thought you would be, or looked like you thought you would look, maintain an attitude of gratitude. You are here!

2. We have all been fearfully and wonderfully made. God made us all beautiful and we are all created equally in God’s eyes.

3. Love! Dare to love yourself and love others like you love yourself. When you love yourself, it motivates you to care for yourself. It is said that we have a different glow when we see ourselves the way God sees us.

4. No one is perfect, so go easy on yourself. Recognise that you are starting at a point of beauty. It is also OK if you seek healthy ways to enhance the way you look.

5. You are a unique masterpiece. Don’t compare yourself to others. We come in different shades, shapes, sizes. Let go of any past hurts or words spoken over you, over your body, over your skin. They do not define you, unless you allow them to.

6. Maintain a healthy skincare routine. The most important steps include cleansing, moisturising and sun protection. If your skin is dry and sensitive use gentle fragrance-free cleansers and fragrance – free moisturisers. Avoid harsh toners and astringents which contain alcohol. If your skin is oily or a combination of oily and dry, you may use deeper cleaning cleansers like those containing salicylic acid once your skin is not irritated by these products. After cleansing you may use a toner/astringent. These individuals should use oil-free moisturisers as well.

7. Everyone should use sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 to protect your skin from the harmful effects of sunlight, which include sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer. Sunscreen should be used daily, reapplied every few hours if outdoors, protective clothing worn and excessive sun exposure limited where possible.

8. Everyone should routinely check their skin for any suspicious lesion that is growing rapidly, changing or causing new symptoms. If in doubt check it out.

9. Exercise and a healthy balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, de-stressing and avoiding smoking contribute to healthy skin.

10. Love the skin you’re in!

Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers is a dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Solutions Skin Clinics & Medi-Spas. Email yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.